When you first turn on a Xiaomi smartphone, Redmi or POCO, It inevitably suggests you create or log in to a Xiaomi account, and many users miss this step without realizing what opportunities they are losing, while without this account, you lose access to branded services, cloud storage, data synchronization and even some smartphone features.
In this article, we will explain what Mi Account is, why it is worth starting, and how to do it quickly β from your phone, computer or through the official website, and what hidden restrictions are imposed on devices without a linked account (for example, locking after resetting settings) and how to get around them.
What is a Xiaomi account and why is it necessary?
Xiaomi Account (or Mi Account) is a single account that links all devices and services in the brand ecosystem. It works similarly to Google Account for Android or Apple. ID for iOS, but with an emphasis on branded features Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO.
From a technical point of view, Mi Account is a cloud profile that stores:
- π± Data devices: a list of attached gadgets, their IMEI, warranty.
- βοΈ Cloud storage: backups, photos, contacts, notes (up to 5 GB free).
- π Synchronization: system settings, wallpaper, themes, call history.
- π‘οΈ Security: Find Device, Locking When Theft, Data Encryption.
Without an account, you can't:
- π Unlock the bootloader (Bootloader) for installing custom firmware.
- π² Use branded services: Mi Cloud, Mi Home (for smart home), Mi Fit (for fitness bracelets).
- π Buy products from the official Xiaomi store with bonuses for device owners.
- π Update firmware over the air (OTA) on some models.
β οΈ Note: On devices with global firmware (Global) ROM) Xiaomi account may need to be unlocked after resetting, without it the phone will turn into a brick"!
Mi Accounts differ from other accounts (Google, Apple) ID, Huawei ID)
Many users confuse Mi Account with accounts from other manufacturers, and letβs look at the key differences:
| Function | Xiaomi (Mi Account) | Google Account | Apple ID | Huawei ID |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Synchronization of contacts | β (via Mi Cloud) | β | β (iCloud) | β (Huawei Cloud) |
| Cloud storage | 5GB free of charge | 15GB (Google Drive) | 5GB (iCloud) | 5GB (Huawei Cloud) |
| Unlocking the loader | β (mandatory) | β | β (closed-ecosystem) | β (via HiSuite) |
| Smart home. | β (Mi Home) | β (Google Home) | β (HomeKit) | β (Huawei Smart Home) |
| Fitness trackers | β (Mi Fit/Zepp) | β | β (Apple Health) | β (Huawei Health) |
Mi Account does not replace Google Account, but complements it. For example, to download applications from the Play Market, you still need a Google profile, but to back up your applications. SMS Xiaomi Smart Light bulb management β only Mi Account.
Important: on devices with firmware for China (China) ROM) Mi Account replaces many Google features (such as contact sync) because Google services are blocked there.
How to create a Xiaomi account: step-by-step instructions
You can register Mi Account in three ways: via smartphone, from a computer or through the official website.
Method 1: Registration via smartphone (Android)
This is the easiest method, as it does not require switching to other devices, POCO and Black Shark.
- Open Settings β Accounts and Sync β Mi Account.
- Click on βCreate an Accountβ (or βRegisterβ).
- Select a country/region (important for the future of the service!).
- Enter a valid email or phone number.
- Create a password (minimum 8 characters, with numbers and letters).
- Confirm registration by SMS or an email.
- Fill out the profile (name, date of birth β optional, but recommended).
Use a real email (you will need it for recovery).
The phone number must be active (it will come). SMS)
Write the password in a safe place (without it, do not unlock the phone after resetting)
Choose the right region (the services available depend on it)
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If you already have a Xiaomi account but have forgotten your password, use the Settings Restore feature. β Mi Account β Forgot the password?.
Method 2: Registration via computer (web version)
If you donβt have a Xiaomi smartphone but are planning to buy one, you can create an account in advance:
- Go to the official website: account.xiaomi.com.
- Click "Sign Up" (Register).
- Select the method of registration: by email or phone number.
- Fill out the form, confirm the data through SMS/email.
- You can now log in to your account on any Xiaomi device.
β οΈ Note: When registering through the site, select the region corresponding to your firmware. ROM, Choose "Russia" or "Europe." For China. ROM You will need a Chinese phone number (+86).
Method 3: Registration through the Mi Home app
This method is suitable if you use Xiaomi smart devices (light bulbs, robot vacuum cleaners, cameras) without the brandβs smartphone:
- Download the Mi Home app from the Play Market or App Store.
- When you first start, select βCreate an accountβ.
- Enter your email or phone, and create a password.
- Confirm registration by SMS/email.
- You can now control Xiaomi smart devices.
Note: an account created through Mi Home is no different than what is registered on a smartphone. All data is synchronized.
π‘
If there is a βtoo many attemptsβ error, wait. 24 For an hour or so, try using another one. email/phone number.
What data are needed for registration and how to protect them
To create a Mi Account, you will need:
- π§ Email (preferably Gmail or Mail.ru β with them less problems).
- π Phone number (for confirmation and recovery).
- π Password (minimum 8 characters, with capital letters and numbers).
To protect your account from hacking:
- π Enable two-factor authentication in your profile settings.
- π± Link backup email and phone.
- π« Do not use one password for multiple services.
- π Regularly update your password (once in a week) 3-6 months).
If you lose access to an email or phone number tied to your Mi Account, it will be extremely difficult to recover it. Xiaomi requires proof of identity through a passport scan, which takes up to 7 days.
β οΈ Note: Never buy Xiaomi accounts on third-party sites! they can be stolen or blocked, and the devices associated with them are remotely blocked by the real owner.
Frequent problems when creating an account and their solution
When registering for Mi Account, users encounter common errors.
| Mistake. | Reason. | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| "The Wrong Region" | Selected region that does not correspond to the firmware | Change region to "Russia" or "Europe" in your account settings |
| "Too many attempts." | Exceeded number of attempts to enter code | Wait. 24 for an hour or use another email/number |
| "Account blocked." | Suspicious activity (many devices, VPN) | Contact Xiaomi with Proof of Ownership |
| "Can't send an SMS." | Problems with the operator or number lock | Try another number or register by email. |
If you see a message saying, "This device is already linked to another account," it means that the previous owner did not untie it.
- Ask the seller to remove the device from your Mi Account.
- If you canβt contact us, contact Xiaomi with a check to buy.
- In extreme cases, unlock through Fastboot (requires technical skills).
What if you donβt receive an SMS with a confirmation code?
How to link your device to your Xiaomi account
So, you can create a Mi Account, and to use all the features, you need to link your device to it. Here's how to do it.
- Open Settings β About the phone β All the parameters.
- Click on "Mi Account Status" (or "More" β Mi Account").
- Sign in to your account if you havenβt already.
- Confirm the deviceβs binding via SMS or email.
After the binding:
- π You can find the device through the Find Device service.
- βοΈ Automatically backup in Mi Cloud.
- π Updates to the firmware will be available through the air (OTA).
β οΈ Note: On some models (for example, Xiaomi 13 Pro or Redmi Note 12) without an attached account, it is impossible to enable the function "Face Unlock" - the system requires confirmation through Mi Account.
To check if the device is tied, go to Settings β Mi Account β Devices. Your smartphone or tablet should be displayed there.
How to delete or change your Xiaomi account
If you're selling a device or you want to change your account, you have to untie it properly. Just logging off is not enough!
To delete the account from the device:
- Go to Settings β Accounts and Sync β Mi Account.
- Click on your profile β "Delete the account".
- Confirm the action with a password.
- Reset your settings (Settings β Additional β Resetting).
To delete Mi Account (together with all data):
- Go to account.xiaomi.com.
- Log in and go to "Account Settings".
- Select βDelete Accountβ and follow the instructions.
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Deleting your Xiaomi account without uncoupling your devices will result in your devices being blocked! Always delete your gadgets from your profile in the My Devices section first.
If you are selling a phone, you must:
- π± Delete your Xiaomi and Google account.
- π Perform reset to factory settings.
- π Keep a cheque or document of transfer of ownership.